I started training with Raul 6 months ago and it's been the best fitness decision I've made in years. My background is that of a former competitive athlete (volleyball) through high school and into college. That however was a long time ago and my own personal fitness efforts veered to that of a standard loop through the gym with a little cardio and weights; and in more recent years, yoga. I've been lucky enough to be able to maintain a fairly fit physic, without too much effort, for most of my life. But I noticed that shifting about 2 years ago. I needed to step up my game, but lacked the motivation to really do it on my own. A shoulder injury a year and a half ago (obtained while playing with my then 6 year old daughter) sidelined all gym activity. After a year of yoga, I just wasn't seeing the results I wanted. I needed to get moving again, which prompted a game changing decision, and I walked into Raul's class. First off, Golden Gate Park...could anyone ask for a more stunning backdrop to workout in? No TV's, no smelly gym, no cell phones. It's one of my favorite places in the City, and I get to workout here! And you will workout! Strawberry Hill, a set of stairs, park benches, and your body weight is literally all Raul needs to give you an unreal workout. Of course, he has kettles bells, tractor tires, and barbells that he likes to mix into workouts as well. Everyday is different. Every workout brings something new that has us asking, how did he come up with this, and what will he bring tomorrow? The group atmosphere is one of the key components for me. I like being part of a team, I like having a "coach", I like have that comradery and motivation from within the group. They support you, they push you, they hold you accountable (even when Raul isn't looking) It pushes you to fight through fatigue, to get those last 2 reps in, and at the end of the hour, it's something we've all done together. Raul's knowledge of the human body, how to work the muscles, to get the optimum performance out of them, is incredible. That coupled with his medical training makes him the perfect trainer if you are injured, or needing rehab. He can have 4 different workouts going in the same hour to adapt to a physical limitation someone may have in class. He is bringing my shoulder back after nearly 2 years of chronic pain. I not only feel it, I see it. I'm stronger, I'm leaner, I have endurance I haven't had in years. If you're looking to change your life physically, come meet us in the park. You won't be sorry. read more

Raul Hurtado is hands down the best trainer I have worked with. No, really... EVER!! It constantly blows my mind how knowledgeable, qualified, smart, and instructive he is, and if that weren't enough-- he's one of the nicest, most patient people I've ever known. Forget the fact that I'm in my 40's and in the best shape of my entire life, thanks to workouts with Raul and San Francisco Strength & Conditioning. His outdoor group exercise class in Golden Gate Park (and at his nearby studio!) completely sets the tone for my entire day. It's SO awesome to be outdoors in nature for an entire hour, exercising alongside of some really cool people I've gotten to know. And whether they all realize it or not, they help hold me accountable for showing up and doing the the work. And by "work", it's actually more like "fun"! Raul is incredibly creative in coming up with different workout routines, so it NEVER gets boring. Some days he'll show up with boxing equipment, and we spend and hour throwing punches and doing crunches. Another day there'll be a truck tire that we have to strike with a sledgehammer, or a competition between two teams to see who can finish a list of exercises first. OMG. SO. FUN!!! (I snapped some pics recently during one of our competitions, and will post them here). The best part of it all really, is the value that you get for your money. Working out with SF S&C is like having a personal trainer, because that's how engaged Raul is with each person's individual workout, form, technique, etc. And if someone has an injury or physical challenge, he ALWAYS remembers, and offers them a modification. A good personal trainer in San Francisco will run you $125+ per HOUR. Eek! But I get to work out 4 days a week PLUS an optional free Saturday workout, PLUS free studio workouts to target specific areas or injuries, and per month, it costs me less than TWO sessions with a personal trainer who isn't half as good as Raul. SFS&C is the best investment in myself that I've ever made! read more

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I have been training with Raul for seven years now. He is one of the best trainers I have every had. His background in physical therapy and his expert understanding on the human body is very hard to find in most trainers. I started training with Raul one year out from ACL surgery on my right knee. He knew how to push me while strengthening my knee. Even times when I have had an injury, Raul still can adapt a work out that fits your level for the day. He is amazing! I am a teacher, and am always astonished on how he can adapt one class to many different fitness levels. Everyone at any level can participate in his boot camp classes. The one thing that really sets Raul apart (besides his kick-ass boot camp sessions) is his love of his job and personal touch. Raul cares about all of us individually. He know about our lives, our interests and our families. I have been suffering recently from chronic headaches, Raul (also a medic) has helped me try to find solutions to what is going on. My sister recently broke her foot back easy, and Raul constantly is checking in about her status. With his new company, Raul offers workshops that allows his clients to work on anything they chose. My first workshop, I worked on IT band issues and my right knee. After an hour, my IT band and back felt instantly better. I have had many session with physical therapists before and never had relief that quickly. I pay for an unlimited monthly that allows me to endless access to sessions and workshops. It is well worth the money! Another benefit from this boot camp sessions is how much easier it is for me to train for half marathons. I have done several races while I am in boot camp and my endurance is longer, and I always feel stronger. The cross training really helps my body for the long races. If you want to lose weight also, this is the way to do it. I have dropped a whole dress size without dieting. I do eat healthy and watch my portions generally. The calories burned in one sessions makes it okay to have that occasional cupcake! Raul is worth every penny and the friendships I have made at boot camp have been wonderful. I feel like they are my second family and I have learned to love getting up for a 6 or 7 am class! It is a wonderful energizing way to start my days! read more

I started training with Raul in 2008. He is FANTASTIC personal trainer. He keeps the workout fun and fresh. He is patient but knows when to push you beyond your comfort level. Before Raul, I never did a push up. He saw that I had the potential to do non-girlie push ups. He patiently lead me to do my first 5 push ups. Now I can easily do 40 push ups in a row! Currently Raul is helping me train for my first 1/2 marathon. Since starting with him at SFS&C six weeks ago, I've improved my pace from a 9:30 mile to an 8:30 mile. If you want to a personal trainer who is passionate, patient, knowledgeable, and fun sign up with Raul. You and your body won't be sorry! read more

My friend recommended this class, and so glad he did bc from day 1 I could feel the fat melting off me. This rigorous but doable CrossFit class happens 4 days a week in Golden Gate Park, and it's an amazing way to get to know the park too! Coach Aaron is the best. He really pays attention to what everyone needs and can modify exercises for you on the fly. The people are really committed and fun - I've never been part of a class like this where many members have been going 10 years or more! It's usually a group of 4 to 7 ppl. I'll probably be a 10 year member one day. This group is that good. read more

Let me get this out of the way: I hate working out. Hate it, hate it, hate it. Sure, it's good for you and every-now-and-again I'll get a bit of that elusive endorphin high, but a dedicated workout buff I am not. I *may* be convinced to go for a run if bribed with the promise of ice cream, chocolates, or a cheeseburger for when I get back. If it's summer and hot enough, I may jump in the sea for a five-minute swim. Aside from that, I hate gyms with a passion (the smell! the sweaty people! the horror!), and I NEVER thought I'd join a group fitness class. But then I did. A year ago I tried Raul's class (then at BootcampSF) for no better reason than they met a stone's throw from my house and a couple of people I trust swore by how much fun it was. Fast forward one year and, despite a less than perfect attendance record, I'm still going strong. I had NO hesitation to follow Raul's in his new venture at SFSNC, even though its main meeting point is not nearly as convenient for me. Raul is, without a doubt, the best trainer I've ever come across (and despite my aversion for working out I seem to have come across a surprising amount of trainers!)--knowledgeable, focused, and able to mix the right amount of encouragement with a laid-back and fostering attitude. He's even fixed the occasional tweaked muscle or crooked neck, and seems to know the secret stretch for just about anything. The fact that most workouts occur in one of the most gorgeous places on earth only adds to the experience. The classes are varied, challenging, and--I hate to admit it--kind of fun. The new online registration/management system is perfect for those with less than regular schedules--or less than ironclad willpower. I whole-heartdely recommend SFSNC for anyone hoping to break a workout rut, or anyone considering training to reach a fitness/wellbeing goal, from being a bit more fit to running your first marathon. Raul will get you there and you'll have a lot of fun along the way. read more

Going on ten years training with Raul, the reason I go back? ... Sometimes life happens and restarting a fitness program can be hard but Raul has a unique way of making me feel like i am winning even if I am last in the class to finish a workout! I recommend this training group for anyone who has a desire to get stronger and do it outdoors. read more

If you like to work out outdoors and you are looking for a challenge then SFS&C will definitely get you motivated to go for it. Classes are held in Golden Gate Park in different areas. The classes offer lots of different exercises and Raul provides the equipment necessary for a complete work out like; exercise body bands, therapy ball,free weights, mats for abs, and other cool stuff. Working out with people who loves to work out is so important because they will also push you to your 150%, plus classmates make the work out time more fun. Raul is a great trainer he keeps everybody busy with killer work out routines. These classes are great for people who wants a hardcore work out and as well for people who need a boost of exercise to start moving. The more you come to classes the stronger you'll become. Love the work out! read more

This is by far the best workout for all levels of fitness. All ages can do this class and it will be a challenge in a good way. If you want to change your life in a positive way this is the workout class for you! read more

About three years ago I signed up to workout with Raul for a month. I was about five years out of college and was starting to feel more and more unhealthy. My background is that I played competitive soccer in high school and four years of college soccer. After college I was working out on my own either in a gym or running outside. After that first month working out with Raul, I felt better than I had in years. Now waking up early and working out with Raul in Golden Gate Park 3 or 4 times a week before work is part of my routine. I could not be happier. Raul is an amazing trainer. He is incredibly professional. His workouts are tough and balanced. He is hands-on to make sure everyone has the correct positions. He has helped me avoid injuries when I started to feel pain in my foot and knee; and he has helped me recover from injuries. I cannot recommend San Francisco Strength and Conditioning enough. If you are looking for outside workouts in Golden Gate Park, it is the way to go. read more

I've been training with Raul for over six years. I started working out with him when I was in my mid-50's. Being a professional couch potato and not in very good shape, he was able to bring me to a level of fitness that enabled me to run a half marathon this year. Some workouts take place outdoors in Golden Gate Park, but now he also has access to a gym located adjacent to the park. He includes assessments and small workshops(4 people or less) as part of the services he offers. Now in my 60's, I find that Raul's ability to identify possible injury sites and give you the information you need to strengthen the area and avoid the pain is awesome. He is a great motivator and uses humor and teamwork to get you moving every day. In my opinion, you won't find a better trainer for any price in the SF area. Give him a call. You won't be disappointed. read more

I've been training with Raul for about four years now and he is hands down the best trainer that I've had. I've been with a ton of trainers before him and I just appreciate his dedication and knowledge. He's not only able to create a great training program, but he's so knowledgeable about injuries and how to work around them. I would know because I am the queen of injuries. Playing soccer, running and just getting older has caused more injuries than I would prefer. In the ~4 years that I've been training with Raul, I sprained my shoulder, had variations of foot troubles and torn my meniscus, which resulted in surgery. The list goes on and on... He's not only helped me work through them, but helped me understand what I should and shouldn't do while working out. Because of him, I've become a faster runner and just a stronger person overall. Also, I love that we workout in Golden Gate park. I know 6am is not for everyone, but I love the serenity that the park brings at that time. This, of course, with the fact that I absolutely hate working out at a gym. He does have later workout times, which is awesome if I have the day off and want to go at later time. If you are just getting back to working out or a fit person looking for a good trainer, I would highly recommend training with Raul. He's worth every penny. read more

In the 6+ years I've been training with Raul, I've never regretted one minute of it! I came to Raul in good shape, after years of yoga and spin classes, but I knew I wanted something more. I craved something new, different, tough, outside... something that would push my limits... and I found it! I never thought I'd run distance, sprint hills, swing kettle bells, jump rope, do pike presses, push-ups and sit-ups... and actually enjoy it! Not only do I have fun and have made great friends through the group workouts, but I'm in the best shape of my life at 45 years old. Raul has not only pushed my endurance and cardio limits, but he has done it with a sense of style, grace, caring and fun. He's helped me through some hamstring and foot injuries, provided tips on nutrition, and has always made himself available for any questions or concerns. Here's the bottom line if you workout with Raul: You will get in shape! You will have fun! You will do things you would never push yourself to do on your own! Working out with Raul in Golden Gate Park is an amazing start to my day and I can't thank him enough! read more

Raul combines the perfect amount of motivation, humor and safety. You receive personalized attention in a group setting while exercising in the great outdoors. read more

I started working out with Raul in December 2007 when he was with bootcampsf. This was one of the best decisions I've ever made. Raul is incredibly talented, dedicated, and thoughtful. I've never been a morning person, but somehow, I wake up excited to start my day with a great trainer and some truly amazing people. If you're looking for real positive change in your life, this is the place to go. read more

Raul is the best. I've been working out with him for 5 or 6 years now. His workouts are varied, challenging, and fun, and they take place in my favorite playground - GG park. If you have an injury, Raul will tailor your workouts to help you rehab correctly and quickly. Plus, he's a really cool guy and the class is comprised of a nice mix of people. The days I go to bootcamp in the morning i am rewarded for the rest of the day. Highly recommended!! read more

I've been working with Raul Hurtado 4 days a week for the past 5+ years. He is the BEST trainer I've ever worked with. He is also better than most sports doctors at diagnosing and fixing sports-related injuries. He's rock-solid reliable (always on time for our 6:00 a.m. sessions) and is a fantastic person. Professionals of Raul's caliber are really hard to find. If you like the outdoors and being fit, San Francisco Strength and Conditioning is the way to go. read more

Raul is a great trainer and a great friend. His morning workouts in Golden Gate Park have been an important part of my life for many years. Join us! read more

I have been working out 4 days a week with Raul for the past 5 years. I never would have lasted this long with one trainer if he wasn't the best. He is constantly pushing us, but at a rate that prevents injuries. He is creative with his workouts. He has an engaging and very pleasant personality, which is critical at 6am! I cannot recommend him enough! read more

You won't regret it. Show up and do the work and you'll be thrilled with the results. Plus it's a great way to start the day, and anything you do after the workout will seem easy by comparison. read more